Chapter 6:
Protect Yourself From Injuries
Synopsis
Injuries are a common occurrence when dealing with handyman work. However, some measure can be taken to minimize the injuries and its frequency.
Stay Safe!
The following are some of the areas where caution should be extended to help minimize the possibility of injuries:
- The handyman should always try to avoid using the table saw fence for crosscuts. This is especially so when making the mistake of starting on wood that is still wet or a bowed and twisted piece of lumber. Using a fence as a guide for cross cutting is dangerous and a better alternative would be to use a miter gauge or build a cross cutting sled.
- Removing the blade guard is another action that should not be practiced, although a lot of handymen seem to disregard this very important precaution. Failing to observe this will certainly result in injury, should any distractions occur while using the blade.
- Holding the board with the hands directly behind the circular saw, is also a folly often taken for granted. Using a temporary nail or clamp is a much safer option.
- Placing the hands or using the hand to grip near the area where nail guns are about to be used is also another mistake that is often made. The hand position holding the board should not be too close to the nail gun. Handling nail guns carefully is very important, as a lot of accidents occur with careless misuse. Disconnecting the hose and keeping away from the trigger is very important.
- Careless use of knives or blades is also another common cause of injury. Therefore, when using either of these, the handyman should keep focused and not allow any distractions to complicate an already potentially dangerous situation.
- Using the relevant protective gear for the face and eye area is important. Safety goggles and face shield should be a standard piece of protective wear used by the handyman.
